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How to Stop Machine Rust

Even the most well-oiled machine may become a victim of rust. Rust is a slow-moving destructive force that degrades and weakens metals over long periods of time. When left untreated rust will eventually reduce machines to a burnt orange-colored pile of dust. It does not have to come to this; even when rust has already begun to taint your machines, it can still be stopped. With a little bit of elbow grease, rust can be eradicated from your machines.

Things You'll Need

  • Oil
  • Fine-gauge sandpaper
  • Steel wool
  • Rust sealant
  • Soap
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Instructions

  1. Removing Rust from Machines

    • 1

      Clean the surface of the machine with soapy water. Rub lubricating oil all over the machine. Keeping machines clean and well-oiled is also the first step to preventing machine rust. If machines operate around corrosive materials such as heavy salts or water, these machines should be regularly cleaned and oiled to prevent rust.

    • 2

      Rub the steel wool and sandpaper on the rust-affected areas. Make sure to apply pressure to the steel wool and sandpaper to remove all of the rust from the machine. The steel wool works better for removing larger amounts of rust from tools, while the sandpaper works better for removing small surface spots of rust. Sandpaper should also be applied after the steel wool to create a finer and smoother finish on the machine.

    • 3

      Spray the surface of the machine with a commercial rust sealant. This will help to protect the machine from further rust damage. The overall strength of a machine is compromised every time it rusts and rust has to be removed. The rust is part of the metal, so removing rust is removing metal. The ultimate way to stop rust from degrading machines is to take preventive measures against rust.